The Baltimore Orioles organization and the MLB community at large are reeling from the shocking news that former pitcher Brian Matusz passed away on Tuesday at the young age of 37. Matusz, the fourth overall selection by the Orioles in the 2008 draft, spent the majority of his eight-year big league career in Baltimore, appearing in 279 games and making 68 starts for the O’s between 2009-2016.
“Brian was beloved throughout Birdland, and his passion for baseball and our community was unmatched,” the Orioles said in a heartfelt statement. “He dedicated his time to connecting with any fan he could, was a cherished teammate and always had a smile on his face.” The cause of Matusz’s untimely death has not been disclosed at this time.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Matusz burst onto the scene as one of the top pitching prospects in baseball after a stellar collegiate career at the University of San Diego. The two-time Golden Spikes Award finalist set school records and won WCC Pitcher of the Year before being selected by the Orioles with the fourth pick in 2008.
He made his MLB debut in 2009 at age 22 and showed flashes of brilliance over his first few seasons in Baltimore. Matusz posted a 10-12 record with a 4.30 ERA in 32 starts as a rookie, striking out 143 batters in 175.2 innings. He emerged as a key part of a young Orioles rotation alongside fellow prospects like Chris Tillman, Jake Arrieta, and Zach Britton.
Postseason Appearances and Bullpen Transition
Matusz helped the Orioles reach the playoffs in 2012 and 2014, making a combined five appearances out of the bullpen in those two postseasons. He allowed just one run over 5.2 innings, although Baltimore fell short of a World Series berth each time.
After struggling as a starter, Matusz found new life as a reliever beginning in 2013. That season he posted a 3.53 ERA in 65 appearances, holding left-handed hitters to a miniscule .168 average. His success against lefties made him a valuable bullpen weapon, especially in matchups against opposing stars.
Matusz was most known for his dominance over Red Sox legend David Ortiz, who managed just a .138 average (4-for-29) with 13 strikeouts in his career against the crafty southpaw.
Late Career Moves and Retirement
Following parts of eight seasons with the Orioles, Matusz was traded to the Braves in May 2016 after posting a 12.00 ERA to begin the year. Atlanta released him after a week, and he latched on with the Cubs, making one start with Chicago that would turn out to be the final MLB appearance of his career at age 29.
Matusz bounced around the minors and independent ball over the next few seasons before officially retiring in 2019. For his career, he went 27-41 with a 4.85 ERA and 490 strikeouts. While he never quite lived up to the lofty expectations placed on him as a top draft pick, Matusz carved out a solid career and remained a beloved teammate and fan favorite in Baltimore.
Remembering Matusz’s Legacy
The news of Matusz’s sudden passing sent shockwaves through the Orioles organization and the broader baseball community. Former teammates, coaches, and opponents all shared their grief and fond memories of the fun-loving lefty across social media.
Matusz’s impact extended well beyond the field, as he was actively involved in various charitable initiatives in the Baltimore area throughout his time with the Orioles. He frequently visited local schools and hospitals, and was the team’s nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award in 2014 in recognition of his community service efforts.
“Brian had such a kind heart and infectious personality,” said former Orioles manager Buck Showalter. “He genuinely cared about the fans and making a difference in the city of Baltimore. It was an honor to manage him and watch him grow both as a player and a person over the years.”
Matusz would have turned 38 on February 11. He is survived by his parents and siblings. At this time, funeral arrangements and memorial plans have not been announced, but the Orioles are expected to find a way to honor Matusz’s legacy this coming season.
Gone far too soon, Brian Matusz leaves behind a lasting impact on the Orioles franchise and all those who knew him. His warm spirit, generosity, and passion for the game will not be forgotten, as the baseball world mourns this tragic loss of a life cut short. May he rest in peace.
